Happy LGBTQ+ History Month! This month is a good chance to think about how LGBTQ+ people have always lived and loved around us, even if they couldn't be out and proud. Jane Austen's novels have proved fertile ground for LGBTQ+ reimaginings; why not start with one of the greatest love stories of all time? In this article, we're going to look at three recent LGBTQ+ stories inspired by the work of Jane Austen. All of these were written for young adults, so perhaps if you have a teenager in your life who might need a little persuading to see Jane Austen's genius, these could make an excellent gift.
I Shall Never Fall in Love
by Hari Conner
This graphic novel follows Eleanor and George as they navigate the challenges of young love. After inheriting the family estate, George's life suddenly becomes ten times more complicated. They must juggle having to manage the household with their burgeoning feelings for their best friend Eleanor, as well as the worry of what might happen if anyone found out they'd secretly been dressing in men's clothing.
Eleanor has never fallen in love, knowing that when she does she'll do it the right way, but for now she'll spend her time with her best friend George and cousin Charlotte. Then an eligible bachelor comes to town and Eleanor suddenly has to confront the complicated feelings that have lived within her all this time.
This sweet graphic novel combines sweet illustrations with Austenian themes like duty, matchmaking and following your own heart.
Pride and Prejudice and the City
by Rachael Lippincott
In this one, YA legend Rachael Lippincott takes Jane Austen on a time-travel adventure. After Audrey has a humiliating run-in with an ex, she's almost relieved to slip through the cracks of time, travelling from 2023 to 1812. There she meets Lucy, who is desperate to escape the grip of the engagement to a man twice her age. Though the pair are initially quite alien to each other, they grow closer as they try to find a way to send Audrey back to the present day. This one plays on the idea of encountering several eligible suitors only to find the one right under your nose.
Mismatched
by Anne Camlin, ill. Isadora Zeferino
Fans of Heartstopper and Clueless will love this graphic novel reimagining of Emma. Social media star Evan Horowitz loves to play matchmaker, so when Natalia, shy and a little uncool, shuffles into school one day, he sees an opportunity he cannot resist. Evan's sensible (and cute?!) best friend Davi thinks that Evan should stop interfering in the lives of others, and sure enough, things start to get a little messy. Can Evan salvage his friendships and a happily ever after?
Do you have a favourite reimagining of Austen's work? Let us know in the comments!
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